John Wayne

A big name in Western films, John Wayne made a name for himself as a personification of American values. Hailing from Winterset, Iowa, Wayne began his career in entertainment as a prop boy and extra before moving up the ladder to film. His first lead role was as Breck Coleman in 1930’s The Big Trail, but his breakthrough role didn’t come until nine years later when he was the leading man in the 1939 film Stagecoach. After his launch to superstardom, Wayne starred in 142 motion pictures during his career, and is remembered for his roles in films like Red River, True Grit, and The Longest Day. Wayne’s status as a Western film star has many of our buyers clamoring to get their hands on memorabilia, and RR Auction is the best place to find it!

Along with signed photos and autographs, RR Auction has also handled other items from the great cowboy actor, like this Winchester Centennial 1966 carbine that fetched $13,315. Originally presented by John Wayne to Old Tucson Studios founder Bob Shelton, this carbine is fitted with a gold-plated receiver with the inscription, “To Robert Shelton, From John Wayne, 1970.” Wayne presented Shelton with this rifle during the filming of the 1970 film, Rio Lobo, and this lot was accompanied by prints of Wayne presenting the rifle to Shelton, as well as a green corduroy vest that Shelton wore in one of the photos.

You can also find screen-worn and personally-owned items in our past lots, such as John Wayne’s kepi. Made in 1833 by the Boston-based company Bent and Bush, this kepi was used in the 1948 film Fort Apache in which Wayne starred alongside Henry Fonda. Director John Ford believed in using costumes that were authentic, and Bent and Bush specialized in the making of military uniforms. Wayne can also be seen holding the kepi in a publicity photo for the movie in his right hand. Originally estimated to sell at about $1,500, this lot went for four times as much, selling for $6,646.

With these selling prices, now has never been a better time to put your John Wayne memorabilia on the market. Find out what your John Wayne pieces are with – contact one of our professionals today! We’re always ready to help and answer any questions you may have. Dial 800-937-3880 or hit the button below to fill out our consignment form.